Postpartum Hiking Gear

Postpartum is a wild ride, and if you're anything like me, you're itchy to get outside and hike again.

Your first few postpartum hikes may feel and be very different to what you were used to pre baby, but keep patient and go with it, give your mind and body time to heal. With all the physical, emotional and hormonal changes, make sure you ready to go hiking and always listen to your gut.

Postpartum with both my babies, I just wanted everything to be comfy and feel good, so yes, gym and lounge wear were my go to.

My first few hikes postpartum with both my kids, gym clothes were all I wore. I didn't buy anything fancy for myself, rather just used the clothes and equipment I already had, as I was familiar with it and knew it was comfy for me.

We started hiking in the late autumn into winter, so layers were an essential! Now it's summer (still raining in June) in the UK and I'm 9 months postpartum, the hiking gear I pack is slightly lighter than it used to be, yay!

Postpartum hiking essentials

There are a few essentials to pack when hiking postpartum, these are:

• The right layers

  Having the right layers for you and baby for the weather is essential to keep you both comfortable. Depending on the age of your baby, it depends on whether they can regulate their own body temperature, so be mindful that you are checking, monitoring and adjusting their body temperature and layers regularly. Also, you may experience periods of being warm, so monitor and adjust your layers as well. Find more information about summer and winter hiking layers.

• Fluids

  Ensure you have enough water for the length of your hike (and a bit more) so you stay hydrated. If you are breastfeeding, you will be thirstier so you may need to pack extra water, or leave another drink in the car. If formula feeding, pack enough milk and bottles for your baby, and if you have a toddler with you, water for them too (it all adds up! My bag was so heavy)

• Something to sit on

  If there’s a bench around, yay! But if not, having something comfy and dry to sit on when you are feeding baby. I highly recommend a sit pad as it can fold up fairly small, is lightweight, is insulated so you will stay warm and dry, plus your toddler will have fun using it too

• Snacks

  Always my top tip, bring snacks, for everyone and then bring some more. Such a morale booster and great incentive for you and your toddler

• GPS/Phone

  Have a working GPS system and phone with you, in case of emergencies, or you need to make a detour. Plus, tell someone where you are going, or what time you plan on being back

• Walking shoes

  Have comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for you. In pregnancy it is common for feet to swell, so having shoes that fit you will prevent blisters, injuries and help you feel comfortable for longer. Again, make sure these are appropriate for the weather and terrain you have

• The right baby carrier

  Hiking with your baby, you may build up to being out for long periods of time and may need a baby carrier that is comfortable and has storage. The right baby carrier for you and your baby will help you both feel comfortable, secure and safe as you adventure together. This really depends on the age of your baby, how long you want it to last for and how long you are going to be wearing it. Hiking with my babies under 9 months, I always used the Ergobaby Omni Breeze, then we switched to the LittleLife S4

• A patient attitude

  Take it easy on the first few postpartum hikes, you’ve got a lot going on, lots to think about (especially if you have a toddler with you too!) and having patience with your body, your baby (your toddler) and your time will help you to enjoy the moment, enjoy the time with your baby and relax. It’s all about making memories, bonding with your baby and feeling like you again

Hiking postpartum was the best thing I've done for me and for my kids, and yes, I didn't get everything right the first or second time, yes some days are extremely hard, some are a breeze, but it is always worth it.

I hope hiking postpartum with your little one can bring you as much purpose and joy as it has given me, and know I'm here to help.